Group F

Group F is one of the tournament’s most tactically diverse quartets, featuring the technical Dutch machine, Asia’s disciplined dark horses Japan, Scandinavia’s resurgent strike force Sweden, and Africa’s defensive fortress Tunisia. The Netherlands under Ronald Koeman are unbeaten in their last 14 fixtures, with Frenkie de Jong and Ryan Gravenberch forming a technically elite midfield double-pivot, while Cody Gakpo provides forward versatility. Their opening clash with Japan at AT&T Stadium in Arlington is one of the most anticipated group-stage tactical battles.

Japan’s synchronized pressing traps under Hajime Moriyasu represent one of the tournament’s most sophisticated defensive systems. Having beaten England at Wembley and regularly frustrated possession-based European sides, Japan carry genuine credentials against the Dutch. Sweden’s volcanic system is built entirely around Viktor Gyökeres’ elite finishing — one of the world’s most prolific strikers in 2025-26 — with Alexander Isak providing additional attacking threat if fully fit after his tibia fracture recovery.

Tunisia under Sabri Lamouchi ran the most dominant CAF qualifying campaign, winning Group H with 10 wins, 1 draw, and zero goals conceded across the entire campaign — a statistical achievement that signals real defensive solidity. Captain Ellyes Skhiri organizes their pragmatic, counter-attacking structure. Tunisia’s goal is to break from the group stage for the first time in their history.